Herschel

Herschel’s Code of Conduct prohibits forced labour and human trafficking, aligning with international human rights standards. All partners must accept this code to enter into collaboration. In addition to independent third-party audits, Herschel conducts regular factory visits. The factories are located in Myanmar, China, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Due to a lack of transparency, we cannot assess the exact working conditions of the people in Herschel’s value chain. However, we can assume that the risks of labour rights violations in garment factories are very high in Myanmar. Read more about the situation for garment workers by Fair Wear Foundation: Vietnam, Myanmar.

The company uses a variety of materials for its collections, including primarily synthetic fibres such as polyester, recycled polyester from pre-consumer plastic bottles, nylon, cotton, and leather. By the end of 2022, a total of 4 million recycled bottles were used for the production of the Eco Collection, processed into backpacks. 

Herschel is regularly audited under the Global Recycled Standard (GRS). Additionally, the brand has been a member of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition since 2021 and has been using the Higg Index tools since 2022. 

Herschel actively works to minimize packaging use, opting for labels and product tags made from 100% Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper, and is increasingly transitioning to recycled and reusable materials. Simultaneously, the company is working to replace paper labels with QR codes to save paper. All products undergo testing for harmful substances, including compliance with the European REACH regulation and California Prop 65.

Herschel primarily focuses on monofibers that facilitate recycling. Since 2023, the company has also been testing a repair service and simultaneously working on their circular economy strategy to find better solutions for the end-of-life cycle of products and packaging. We are looking forward to a more general implementation of this pilot project! 
By the way, in 2021, all owned and leased retail stores as well as offices were powered by 100% renewable energy.

Herschel regularly monitors its supply chain through annual audits and factory visits to ensure all partners adhere to its strict code of conduct. The company invests in training for employees and executives to raise awareness on critical issues like human trafficking. 

Herschel collaborates with suppliers in China, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Vietnam. And say they established clear guidelines for all suppliers. However, the headquarter is located in Vancouver, so the distances in the supply chain are very long.

Herschel uses animal leather. Unfortunately, they do not mention any code of conduct or actions to ensure animal welfare practices.

Herschel emphasizes timeless design and functionality in their products to ensure longevity for lifelong use. They educate about proper care, recommending practices such as washing synthetic fabrics in cold water and using gentle cycles to reduce the release of microfibers. These efforts aim to extend product lifespan and promote more sustainable practices.

Herschel publishes online emissions from Scope 1, 2, and 3, and in 2021, they initiated a CO2 emissions reduction initiative with South Pole. Sadly, they do not share any detailed information about the production facilities in their supply chain, nor about the working conditions or relationships they have with the suppliers. They also keep us in the dark on, the exact origin of the materials.